Acute respiratory distress syndrome, commonly referred to as ARDS, is a critical medical condition that may develop after an inciting event such as chest trauma, severe head injury, drug overdose, blood transfused in large quantities, aspiration of fluid such as vomit into the lungs or sepsis (an inflammatory response to infection). Persons suffering from ARDS, which is also known as adult respiratory distress syndrome and respiratory distress syndrome, experience severe shortness of breath and typically require mechanical ventilation, drug therapy and/or cardiovascular support. Often those who develop ARDS have already been hospitalized for the underlying event that caused the condition. About 30 to 45 percent of those who suffer ARDS die, often from multisystem organ failure. For those who recover, oxygen deprivation is a concern and may have lasting effects.

While ARDS can be unavoidable, it is sometimes the result of medical malpractice. Giving a patient too much blood, too many drugs, the wrong kinds of drugs, failing to prevent aspiration of fluid into the lungs or failure to diagnose or properly treat sepsis can all lead to respiratory failure.

If you suspect that you or a loved one suffered from ARDS as a result of medical negligence, it is crucial to consult with a medical malpractice attorney as soon as possible. Our experienced personal injury lawyers can help you secure all of the compensation to which you may be entitled. This may include compensation for pain and suffering, financial loss, emotional distress and medical expenses. In some cases, you may also be entitled to punitive damages for another party’s wrongdoing. Our dedicated trial lawyers can also help you deal with your insurance company, as well as the insurer of the other party or parties. The insurance companies have lawyers working hard to minimize their payouts; you need a medical malpractice attorney who will work just as hard for you.

At Feldman Shepherd, we are committed to helping our clients throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey obtain the best possible recovery as expeditiously as possible. We are here to serve you with hard work, attention to detail and a caring approach tailored to your individual needs. If we may be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to contact us today.